McKayla & Alissa
Wedding Party
Mick McMichael (They/Them)
Officiant
"McKayla is my cousin and one of my closest friends. We have grown up together in every way and she has supported me through some of the worst and best times in my life. She is so amazing!!!" Mick is a whole baddie, and we are so honored they agreed to officiate our wedding (they probably did not expect it to stick when they agreed to officiate for McKayla's brother a couple of years ago). Mick is a pilot, a black belt, and a cross-fit champion. They are from a town in Idaho no one has heard of, but they spend time all over the country flying patients to get the emergency medical care they need. McKayla and Mick grew up together, were homeschooled together, and have been in close contact their entire lives. Having seen each other through every phase of their lives, Mick is a vital part of McKayla's, and now Alissa's, inner circle. Alissa is so excited to score such a cool person as a cousin. We both love every phone call and visit with Mick we're lucky enough to have.
Abbie Robinson (She/Her)
Maid of Honor
When my parents told me that I was getting a sister at 11 years old, I was not happy! But as soon as Abbie came into this world, I adored her. She was absolutely a pain sometimes, but I wouldn't change it for the world. She's now become a huge part of McKayla's life too, and we love seeing her grow into the snarky (but sweet) teenager she is today.
Kayla Dabler (She/Her)
Matron of Honor
"Alissa is my favorite person on this planet. She is my best friend ❤️" As soon as Kayla and I started working together, we knew instantly we'd be best friends. Within a few weeks, we got matching tattoos and were spending every day together. Kayla was so happy for me when I met McKayla, and instantly loved McKayla too! We are so grateful to have her in our wedding party. The day wouldn't be the same without her.
Stephanie Owens (She/Her)
Bridesmaid
"My relationship is extremely special with the bride. She has been in my life since elementary school and we became really close friends. So many good memories that I will cherish forever. She is now the god mother to son and “Auntie Wissa” to my oldest daughter. I guess you could say she’s more like family to me." Stephanie and I go way back. When we met in third grade, we instantly hit it off. We were playing polly pockets and running around the neighborhood in no time. Stephanie and I have drifted apart from time to time, but when we come back together it's like nothing has changed. I've had the honor of watching her raise her kids and be a part of their lives too. I'm so thankful to have Stephanie as part of our big day.
Gavin Taylor (He/Him)
Best Man
Gavin is a man of few words, and the best man I could ask for on this incredible day. Five and a half years younger than me, I grew up caring for and tormenting Gavin all his life. Much to my delight Gavin has become an incredible husband and father to his own beautiful family and remains one of the closest relationships McKayla has with her family. Not only is he the best man, but he will be walking me down the aisle and participating in one of the first dances of the evening in memory of our mom, who passed away 9 years ago, and wasn't able to be here for either of our weddings.
Ffyona Taylor (She/Her)
Best Woman
"McKayla is my sister AKA Bestie." Well before Ffyona became my sister-in-law, she was already established as my sister. Ffyona is one of my closest relationships, not to mention, she is a world-class "body double." I'm so grateful that she agreed to be at my wedding party and help keep me fully functioning throughout the duration of the wedding planning process and day. She has always encouraged me to live my truth and leave my fear behind. Her gentle guidance is a large part of the reason we're here today and I know Alissa and I are both very grateful for that.
Beth Austin (She/They)
Bestie of Honor
"In the days of yore, I was a contract therapist [at our mutual place of employment], and I had the pleasure of working with many different people. [Over the course of working there] I had the pleasure of hearing McKayla's Russian accent, experiencing her compassion, and watching her evolution to discover and embrace her true self. it is not often that our work friends become our real-life friends. It's even more rare for those friends to become such integral parts of your life. I feel lucky that I got to listen, laugh, and adventure with her. [By the time Alissa came along] I was attached and protective of my McK. She's like my little sister whom I only want the best for, and Alissa is the best for her. I get to see them both grow (individually and together), and I know I am so lucky to be witness to such a powerful and loving relationship. I have had the honor of having McKayla's support, wisdom, talent, and love in some of my most important moments of the last few years. And it continues to be my honor to be with her for some of hers." Beth has been a source of sanity for me since we first started working together. She has such a warm energy, an abundance of sincere compliments, and an all-around fierce light of which I am so lucky to be a recipient. I couldn't imagine this day without her watching my back. I am so grateful to have her in my corner.